The historical role of the corporation in society

摘要: This article charts the historical role of corporation in society from antiquity to present day. Using a broad temporal and transnational approach, it argues that social purpose has been defining trait since concept legal personhood first appeared antiquity. The direct connection between incorporation formally broke nineteenth century, when countries like United Kingdom States introduced general laws. Yet many corporations continued act positively on behalf voluntary basis even as they acted against interests workers, consumers, environment. demonstrates concerns about corporate power have long history, societies over time designed variety systems forms governance address these concerns.